Former Blue Angel takes helm at Pensacola NAS

Mar. 29, 2013 - 08:08AM
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PENSACOLA, Fla. — A former member of the Blue Angels has become the new commanding officer of the Pensacola Naval Air Station.

The Pensacola News Journal reports that 47-year-old Capt. Keith Hoskins on Thursday became the chief of the base where he started his career in 1989. This is his third tour of duty in Pensacola.

Hoskins flew with the Blue Angels flight demonstration team from 1999 to 2001. The Navy on Thursday extended the practice schedule for the flight team through April 5. But four April appearances have been canceled because of possible federal budget cuts.

Officials said Hoskins is the first member of the Blue Angels and the first African American to hold the post.

He has more than 3,400 flight hours and 570 aircraft carrier landings.